Citizenship Program Overview
Benefits of the Türkiye Citizenship by Investment
- Visa-Free Travel: Access visa-free travel to more than 110 destinations, including popular destinations like Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore.
- Mediterranean Lifestyle: Experience the benefits of a mild Mediterranean climate, stunning scenery, and an exceptional standard of living.
- Full Citizenship: Citizenship is awarded to the applicant and their family members.
- E-2 Business Visa to the USA: Turkish citizens can live and work in the USA by investing in a business.
- US Tourist Visa: Applying for a B-1/B-2 visa to the USA can be achieved through US consulates in Türkiye.
- Schengen Visa: Get a C-2 Schengen visa valid for five years, giving you the flexibility to stay for up to 90 days within any 180 days.
- Strategic Location: With access to a stable economic, financial, and political hub that connects Europe, Western Asia, and the Middle East, it offers a prime location for business opportunities.
- Investment Return: The initial investment can be sold after three years, allowing for the funds to be recovered.
- Safe Haven: Ensuring entry to Türkiye even during border closures, offering a haven during times of crisis.
- Dual Citizenships: Türkiye allows dual citizenship, so investors can retain their original passports if permitted by their home country.
Requirements of the Türkiye Citizenship by Investment
To qualify for citizenship, applicants must:
- Be over 18 years old.
- Meet all application requirements.
- Select one of the available investment options.
- Successfully pass the due diligence process before applying to the program.
Investment Options of the Türkiye Citizenship by Investment
The main applicant may include their spouse, dependent children under 18, and any children with disabilities in their application.
To qualify for citizenship, the main applicant must choose one of the following investment options:
Option 1: Real Estate Investment
Purchase real estate valued at a minimum of USD 400,000.
Option 2: Fixed Capital Contribution
Make a minimum investment of USD 500,000.
Option 3: Bank Deposit
Deposit at least USD 500,000 into a Turkish bank account.
Option 4: Government Bonds
Invest a minimum of USD 500,000 in government bonds.
Option 5: Real Estate or Venture Capital Fund
Contribute at least USD 500,000 to a share in a real estate investment fund or a venture capital investment fund.
Option 6: Private Pension System
Invest at least USD 500,000 in a private pension system for a minimum holding period of three years.
Option 7: Job Creation
Create employment for at least 50 individuals, as confirmed by the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Services.
Procedures & Time Frame of the Türkiye Citizenship by Investment
The process for Türkiye Citizenship by Investment begins with selecting a qualifying investment option, followed by submitting a residence permit application for the family. The principal applicant must also open a bank account in Türkiye as part of the requirements.
Once all the necessary documents are prepared, including any required certifications and translations, the investment can be made, and the documents submitted to the government. Contributions need to be made in Turkish lira, equal to the necessary USD amount. The main applicant must personally visit Türkiye in person to provide biometric data for the residence application.
Application approvals generally take three to five months, after which citizenship documents are issued. Once citizenship is granted, the passport application can be submitted.
Applicants should be aware of Turkish gift and inheritance tax obligations on assets owned by Turkish citizens. Seeking professional tax advice is recommended to ensure compliance, and Emirates Advisory offers expert support in this area.
Dual Citizenship
There are no restrictions on dual citizenship of Türkiye.
Türkiye Citizenship by Investment Program FAQ's
How to return the investment?
Returning the investment involves selecting the real estate option. Investors may purchase residential or commercial properties, as well as land holdings, and sell them after a minimum holding period of three years. However, the buyer of the property will not be eligible to apply for Turkish citizenship. Once the three-year period has passed, the initial investment can be recouped.
Investors can also generate income by renting out their real estate holdings. Some developers project an annual rental yield of up to 8% in US dollars. However, investors should note that rental income is subject to a 35% capital gains tax.
What are the required documents to obtain Turkish citizenship by investment?
To obtain Turkish citizenship by investment, all foreign documents must be translated into Turkish, notarized, and apostilled. Applicants must also obtain a short-term residence permit. The required documents include:
- Four passport-sized photos
- Medical certificate
- Original police clearance certificate
- Original or notarized copy of the birth certificate
- Original or notarized copy of the passport
Do I need to come to Turkey to get a passport?
To apply for citizenship in Turkey, the investor must be at the migration service office in person. There are no criteria for residing in Turkey.
What are the benefits of obtaining Turkish citizenship through investment?
Investing in Turkish citizenship has many benefits:
- Unlike other citizenship programs, applicants can keep their citizenship without language or history examinations. No residency in Turkey is required to obtain or maintain citizenship. After three years, the assets can be sold, or the deposit closed, and the money is recoverable.
- Turkish citizenship grants free education, medical care, and visa-free travel to over 110 countries, including Japan and Singapore, some of the world’s most fascinating places.
- Turkish citizenship through investment opens up European and Asian markets for business and investment.
Consult a professional company like Emirates Advisory to learn the benefits and considerations
Can I apply for Turkey citizenship by investing myself?
No, by law, only a licensed program agent like Emirates Advisory can apply on behalf of an investor.
How can I ensure the success of my Turkey citizenship by investment application?
Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable professional, such as Emirates Advisory, is highly advised to ensure the validity and legality of the application process. It is crucial to provide precise documentation that includes all the required supporting evidence.
Can I get Turkish citizenship by buying a house?
Yes, you can get Turkish citizenship by investing in real estate. The minimum cost of your properties is $400,000.
Overview of Türkiye
Turkey, straddling Europe and Asia, offers a strategic location bridging continents. Famous for its fascinating past and varied scenery, it features bustling urban centres such as Istanbul and calm coastal escapes along the Mediterranean and Aegean seas.
- The Capital City: Ankara
- Languages: Turkish, English
- Economy: Developed, industrialized
- Currency: Turkish lira
Turkey’s economy is classified by its dynamic nature, with vital sectors such as manufacturing, technology, and tourism. Being a G20 member presents significant growth prospects with a favourable business environment and a talented, youthful workforce.
Istanbul’s airports connect Turkey to over 300 destinations worldwide, making them significant global hubs. The country’s modern infrastructure ensures seamless travel for business and leisure.
Passport holders from Turkey have the advantage of being able to travel to 110+ countries without needing a visa or obtaining one upon arrival. These countries include popular destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Americas, allowing for greater freedom of movement worldwide.
Turkey’s membership in various international organisations such as the G20, NATO, and the Council of Europe highlights its significant global economic and political influence.